On Leaves the Size of Montana and Other Things

After one of the Blossoms' most anticipated events of the year - the co-op Thanksgiving potluck, which is something like the equivalent of a class holiday party - this mama had to get her driver's license picture taken.  Mega exciting, I know. 

But, there's a little nature park nearby, that I've oft wanted to explore, so with a bark of "Throw your nature journals and colored pencils in your backpack," I kept this little idea in my back pocket as a surprise for later.

I like to think that learning can happen anywhere, in the moments that we embrace, the opportunities right in front of us, instead of hoping for a better time, a better place, or even a better method.

I like to snatch the moments of just being together, grabbing on tight to the snippets of time that we have.  

This felt like that.

A boring errand that must be done before the holidays and the perfect location to explore.  

Once my little surprise was out of the bag, grins of delight emerged and twinkles of curiosity lit in their eyes.

We meandered wooded paths, exclaiming over maple leaves the "size of Montana."  Said maple leaf is now residing pinned to the bulletin board over Blossom2's desk.  I dread the day it gets bumped, crumples and must be relocated into the cycle of life, i.e., the compost pile.

We explored the chilly marshy froggy habitats.  

Poor Toad.  He is not allowed to cross.

Savoring a short repast in this woodland throne flickered the Blossoms' imaginative stories alive.

Mama adored the wooden bridges.  Water crossings are delightful, even when the creeks are low.  Hollow footfalls and shouts of glee make my mama heart glad.

When we're out in the Great Outdoors, I like to keep an eye on where the girlies are spending the most time.  Then, we plop down and journal there.  This catch and release area, chock-full of monstrous trout, suited the Blossoms' fancy just fine.  Since some thoughtful person stocked it with fish food, they loved feeding the fish and naming the species they could see.  

We all journal, even Mama, and I'm amazed at what journalling can do for someone.  It's a processing tool.  It's practicing communication.  It aids in observation.  It's an exercise that it unique to each child.  

We packed up and journeyed home, happy in a few moments of fresh air and fully appreciating the beauty God placed around us.

Dominique